Product Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Product Designer Company: Raspberry Pi Foundation Location: United Kingdom (Cambridge, UK or remote with regular travel to Cambridge) Job Type: Permanent; full-time, part-time, or flexible Category: Product Design / UX/UI Design Date Posted: 2025-09-29T12:42:36.302 Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years implied) Remote Status: Hybrid (Remote with regular travel to Cambridge)

🚀 Role Summary

• Design impactful digital products and services used by millions globally, focusing on user experience and engagement for young people and educators.
• Collaborate within a cross-functional agile team, including UX Researchers, Content Designers, Product Managers, and Software Engineers, to deliver high-quality digital solutions.
• Create build-ready UI designs that leverage UX best practices to solve complex problems and implement new features across various platforms.
• Contribute to the ongoing development and refinement of the company's design system to ensure consistency and scalability.
• Advocate for accessibility and adhere to the ICO’s Age Appropriate Design code, ensuring products are safe and suitable for young users.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role is described as a "Product Designer" but the responsibilities heavily emphasize UI design and user experience, suggesting a strong focus on the visual and interactive aspects of product development. The inclusion of "contributing to our design system" indicates a need for systematic design thinking and component-based design.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Deliver creative visual and UI designs, underpinned by UX best practices, for a diverse range of digital products that effectively meet the needs of varied user groups.
• Actively participate as a member of a cross-functional team dedicated to ensuring our products provide meaningful, engaging, and delightful user experiences.
• Champion a user-centric design approach, validating designs through frequent user testing in collaboration with User Experience Researchers, and iterating based on feedback and insights.
• Clearly articulate design concepts and thinking to stakeholders through compelling presentations of designs and prototypes.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of team workflows and processes, with a specific focus on the development and maintenance of the Design System.
• Ensure all product designs are accessible and compliant with the ICO’s Age Appropriate Design code, prioritizing the safety and suitability for young people and volunteers.
• Engage with a variety of the Foundation’s digital products, all of which have a substantial reach and the potential to positively influence the lives of young people globally.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative execution, user advocacy, and collaborative process improvement. The emphasis on "testing with users often" and "iterating based on feedback" points to an agile and data-informed design methodology.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a strong portfolio demonstrating practical application of design principles is paramount. Candidates are encouraged to apply even if they don't meet every listed attribute. Experience: Demonstrable experience in professional digital Product Design or UI Design is required. Experience working collaboratively with software engineers to design products within technical constraints is also essential.

Required Skills:

• Demonstrable experience in professional digital Product Design or UI Design.
• Ability to create detailed, finessed UI designs that align with both business objectives and user needs.
• Experience collaborating with software engineers to design products that respect technical limitations.
• Understanding of UX research methodologies and practical application in testing designs with users.
• Proactive, self-starting, and problem-solving attitude.
• Openness to providing and receiving constructive feedback.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate design thinking clearly to diverse audiences.
• Experience working with a range of stakeholders across an organization.

Preferred Skills:

• An interest in education, particularly in computer science, physical computing, and digital making for young people.
• Experience contributing to or managing a Design System.
• Familiarity with Agile development methodologies.
• Proficiency with collaboration tools such as Figma and Slack.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Experience and personal attributes" section indicates a focus on practical, demonstrable skills over formal education. The "recognize that everyone has the potential for growth" statement suggests a supportive environment for candidates who may be developing in certain areas but show strong foundational abilities and a willingness to learn.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a range of digital product designs, highlighting UI and UX considerations, with a focus on user-centric problem-solving.
• Include case studies that detail the design process from problem identification to final solution, emphasizing user research, iteration, and outcomes.
• Demonstrate experience in creating build-ready UI designs, including detailed specifications for implementation by engineering teams.
• Present examples of contributions to, or utilization of, a Design System, illustrating an understanding of design consistency and scalability.

Process Documentation:

• Evidence of working within cross-functional, agile teams, demonstrating an understanding of collaborative workflows and communication tools (e.g., Figma, Slack, monday.com).
• Examples of how user feedback and research insights were incorporated into the design process to drive iterations and improvements.
• Documentation of how designs were presented to and communicated with stakeholders, showcasing clarity and persuasive articulation of design rationale.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job description doesn't explicitly ask for a "portfolio" in the traditional sense for operations roles, the "Responsibilities" and "Experience" sections strongly imply the need for a visual and process-oriented portfolio. This should include case studies demonstrating UI/UX design skills, problem-solving, collaboration, and understanding of technical constraints.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: £40,000 – £46,000 per annum (full-time equivalent), dependent on experience.

• Note: This range is for a full-time role. Pro-rata adjustments will apply for part-time or flexible arrangements.

Benefits:

• Paid Time Off: 25 days of paid annual leave initially (rising to 30 after five years), plus 3 additional company-wide closure days at year-end. Public holidays are also observed.
• Pension: 8% employer contribution (employee contributes a minimum of 4%).
• Private Healthcare: Comprehensive coverage through Vitality Plus.
• Flexible Working: Policies supporting flexibility in work hours and location to promote work-life balance.
• Support for Parents and Carers: Generous family leave and flexible working options.
• Life Assurance and Income Protection: Schemes providing financial security for employees and their families.
• Learning and Development: Investment in professional growth through access to resources, training, and dedicated time for learning.
• Travel to Work: Schemes such as Cycle-to-Work and Season Ticket Loans to support cost-effective and sustainable commuting.

Working Hours: Full-time equivalent is likely 40 hours per week, but the role offers flexibility in terms of full-time, part-time, or flexible working arrangements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is specific to the UK. Given the "full-time equivalent" phrasing, it's important for candidates to clarify the exact pro-rata calculations for part-time or flexible arrangements. The extensive benefits package indicates a strong commitment to employee well-being and professional development.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Technology / Education / Non-Profit Company Size: The Raspberry Pi Foundation is a significant global organization with teams in six countries and partnerships in over 60. While an exact employee count isn't provided, its reach suggests a mid-to-large sized organization with a strong international presence. Founded: The company was founded approximately a decade ago, establishing itself as a leader in the educational technology movement.

Team Structure:

• The digital products team operates in Cambridge and remotely across the UK, fostering a hybrid and collaborative environment.
• It comprises cross-functional roles including Product Designers, User Experience Researchers, Content Designers, Product Managers, and Software Engineers.
• Collaboration is facilitated through tools like monday.com, Figma, and Slack, indicating a modern, digital-first approach to teamwork.

Methodology:

• The team operates within an agile framework, emphasizing iterative development and continuous improvement.
• User-centricity is a core principle, with regular user testing and feedback loops integrated into the design process.
• A strong emphasis is placed on accessibility and adherence to relevant design codes (e.g., ICO’s Age Appropriate Design code).
• The development and utilization of a Design System are key to maintaining consistency and efficiency across products.

Company Website: raspberrypi.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is portrayed as flexible, collaborative, and mission-driven. The focus on empowering young people through computing and digital technologies suggests a passionate and purpose-led workforce. The hybrid and remote work setup, combined with modern collaboration tools, points to an adaptable and forward-thinking operational environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-level Product Designer, suitable for individuals with 2-5 years of demonstrable experience. It involves delivering creative design solutions, contributing to strategic product development, and actively participating in team processes. Reporting Structure: While not explicitly stated, the Product Designer will work as part of a cross-functional team, likely reporting to a lead designer, product manager, or design lead within the digital products department. Operations Impact: The work directly impacts millions of users globally, influencing how young people and educators engage with digital technologies. Successful design outcomes contribute significantly to the Raspberry Pi Foundation's mission of empowering digital literacy and creativity.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in UI/UX design, contribute to a growing Design System, and gain experience with a wide array of digital products.
• Cross-functional Learning: Exposure to user experience research, content design, product management, and software engineering practices within an agile environment.
• Impact and Reach: The chance to work on products with a massive global audience, directly contributing to educational outcomes and technological empowerment.
• Professional Development: The Foundation invests in employee growth, offering access to learning resources, training, and dedicated time for development, which can include specializing in areas like accessibility or specific design methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for growth within product design, particularly for those interested in educational technology. The emphasis on a Design System and cross-functional collaboration provides a solid foundation for developing comprehensive product design skills and potentially moving into more senior or specialized design roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role supports both office-based work in Cambridge, UK, and remote work. This suggests a hybrid model where in-person collaboration is valued, but flexibility is a key offering. Office Location(s): Cambridge, UK, with the expectation of regular travel for those working remotely. Workspace Context:

• The team utilizes modern collaboration tools such as monday.com, Figma, and Slack, facilitating seamless communication and design workflows regardless of location.
• The environment is described as flexible and collaborative, aiming to be a place where talented individuals can do their best work.
• The team is passionate and dedicated to the mission, fostering a supportive and engaging atmosphere.
• There is an emphasis on inclusivity and creating a space where people feel respected, valued, and empowered.

Work Schedule: The role offers flexibility, being available as full-time, part-time, or with flexible working arrangements. This allows individuals to tailor their schedule to balance work responsibilities with personal needs, while still contributing effectively to team deadlines and agile processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid and flexible work environment is a significant aspect of the role. The reliance on digital collaboration tools indicates that remote team members will be well-integrated into daily operations, with the expectation of occasional travel to Cambridge for key meetings or collaborative sessions.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Submit CV, a short cover letter, and respond to initial screening questions.
• Screening: Applications reviewed by the recruitment team and hiring manager.
• Phone Screen: A call with the hiring manager to discuss the application and address candidate questions.
• First-Round Interview: Typically with the hiring manager and at least one other colleague.
• Work-Based Assessment: Candidates will likely undertake a practical assessment related to the role's responsibilities (e.g., a design exercise) in advance of interviews.
• Second-Round Interview: Further interviews, potentially including a panel or senior team members, to assess fit and suitability. At least one interview is expected to be in-person if feasible.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase UI/UX Expertise: Ensure your portfolio clearly demonstrates your ability to create polished UI designs and your understanding of user experience principles.
• Detail Your Process: For each project, explain the problem, your role, the design process (including user research, ideation, iteration), and the final outcome, ideally with quantifiable results if possible.
• Highlight Collaboration: Include examples of how you've worked with engineers, product managers, or other stakeholders. If you've contributed to a design system, showcase that.
• Accessibility Focus: If possible, include projects where accessibility was a key consideration or demonstrate your understanding of accessibility guidelines.
• Tailor to Mission: Align your portfolio presentation with the Raspberry Pi Foundation's mission of empowering young people and educators.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Exercise: Be prepared for a design challenge that assesses your problem-solving skills, UI design capabilities, and ability to work within potential technical or time constraints. Practice creating wireframes, mockups, and prototypes.
• Communication: Practice articulating your design decisions clearly and concisely, explaining the rationale behind your choices, especially concerning user needs and business goals.
• Stakeholder Management: Be ready to discuss how you've managed feedback from various stakeholders and how you've navigated differing opinions to reach a consensus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The recruitment process emphasizes practical assessment and clear communication. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their design skills through a work-based assessment and articulate their thought process during interviews. A well-curated portfolio that showcases relevant projects and a strong understanding of the design process is crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: Essential for UI design, prototyping, and collaborative design workflows. Proficiency in creating design systems within Figma is highly beneficial.
• monday.com: Used for team collaboration, project management, and workflow tracking. Familiarity with this platform can streamline project execution.
• Slack: Key for real-time communication and team interaction within the remote and hybrid work environment.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While specific tools aren't listed, an understanding of how to interpret user analytics and performance metrics to inform design decisions is implied, especially given the focus on user testing and impact.

CRM & Automation:

• Not explicitly mentioned as primary tools for this role, but an awareness of how design integrates with broader product development pipelines is advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core tools mentioned are Figma, monday.com, and Slack. Candidates should be proficient in Figma for design and prototyping. Familiarity with project management tools like monday.com and communication platforms like Slack will also be beneficial for seamless integration into the team's workflow.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Mission-Driven: A strong commitment to the Raspberry Pi Foundation's mission of empowering young people through computing and digital technologies.
• User-Centricity: Placing users (young people, educators) at the forefront of all design decisions and product development.
• Collaboration: Working effectively within cross-functional teams, valuing diverse perspectives and shared problem-solving.
• Impact: Striving to create digital products that have a significant and positive impact on a global scale.
• Inclusivity & Accessibility: Commitment to creating products and a workplace that are accessible to all, adhering to relevant design codes for young people.
• Continuous Improvement: A proactive approach to enhancing workflows, design processes, and product features.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Close collaboration with UX Researchers, Content Designers, Product Managers, and Software Engineers is fundamental.
• Agile Methodology: Working within an agile framework that involves regular communication, feedback loops, and iterative development.
• Open Communication: Utilizing tools like Slack and monday.com for transparent and efficient communication.
• Feedback Exchange: A culture that encourages both giving and receiving constructive feedback to foster growth and improve outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture emphasizes passion for the mission, collaborative problem-solving, and a commitment to user well-being and inclusivity. Candidates who are motivated by social impact and enjoy working in a supportive, team-oriented environment will likely thrive here.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Diverse Needs: Designing for a broad audience of young people and educators with varying technical skills and needs, while also meeting business objectives.
• Technical Constraints: Designing effective solutions that are feasible within the technical limitations of the platforms and development resources.
• Global Reach & Accessibility: Ensuring designs are universally understood, accessible across different devices and contexts, and compliant with international regulations.
• Design System Evolution: Contributing to and maintaining a design system that scales effectively across a growing portfolio of products.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deepen Design Expertise: Gain extensive experience in UI/UX design for educational technology, with opportunities to specialize.
• Contribute to Design System: Play a key role in shaping and expanding the Foundation's design system, a valuable skill for future roles.
• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Work closely with researchers, content designers, and engineers, broadening understanding of the full product development lifecycle.
• Impactful Projects: Work on digital products with millions of users, offering a unique opportunity to see the real-world impact of your design work on global education.
• Professional Training: Access to learning resources and dedicated time for professional development, encouraging continuous skill enhancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities to tackle challenging design problems with significant social impact. The emphasis on continuous learning and cross-functional collaboration provides a strong foundation for career advancement within product design and related fields.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process Walkthrough: Be prepared to walk through a past project from your portfolio, explaining your design process, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them. Focus on user-centricity and problem-solving.
• Design System Contribution: Discuss your experience with design systems – how you've used them, contributed to them, or the benefits you see in having one.
• Accessibility & Age Appropriateness: Be ready to discuss your understanding of accessibility principles and the ICO's Age Appropriate Design code, and how you'd apply these to product design for young people.
• Collaboration Scenarios: Prepare examples of how you’ve collaborated with engineers, researchers, and product managers, and how you handle differing opinions or technical constraints.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Mission Alignment: Articulate why you are interested in the Raspberry Pi Foundation's mission and how your design skills can contribute to their goals.
• Team Dynamics: Discuss your preferred working style within a cross-functional, agile team and how you give and receive feedback.
• User Focus: Explain how you ensure users are at the center of your design process, especially when designing for young audiences.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Curate Select Projects: Choose 3-4 projects that best showcase your UI design skills, problem-solving abilities, and experience with user-centric design.
• Tell a Story: For each project, frame it as a narrative: the challenge, your approach, the solutions, and the impact.
• Highlight Process: Clearly show your thought process, including research, wireframing, prototyping, and iteration, not just the final UI.
• Visual Clarity: Ensure your presentation is visually clean, well-organized, and easy to follow.
• Quantify Impact: If possible, use data or metrics to demonstrate the success of your designs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating practical design skills, a user-centered mindset, collaborative capabilities, and alignment with the Foundation's mission. A strong portfolio presentation is key to showcasing these attributes effectively.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Designer position:

• Submit your CV and a short cover letter through the provided application link.
• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a portfolio that clearly demonstrates your UI/UX design skills, process, and impact. Select projects that align with the role's responsibilities, especially those involving digital products, user-centricity, and potentially educational content.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant experience in Product Design, UI Design, UX Research collaboration, working with engineers, and any experience with design systems or accessibility. Use keywords from the job description.
• Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss specific projects from your portfolio, articulate your design process, and answer questions about collaboration, problem-solving, and your interest in the Foundation's mission. Practice presenting your work concisely and effectively.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with the Raspberry Pi Foundation's work, mission, and values. Understand the impact of their digital products and consider how your design approach can contribute to their goals. Research the ICO's Age Appropriate Design code.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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